SEPTEMBER 16, 2024
PHOENIX, AZ (September 16, 2024) – Fresh Start’s annual fall luncheon Sip & Soirée was held at Chateau Luxe on September 14th to raise funds and awareness of the nonprofit’s mission to empower Arizona’s women. Hosted by Fresh Start’s Auxiliary Board and presented by D.A.Ranch Estate Vineyards, Fresh Start’s Sip & Soirée raised over $500,000 to help provide comprehensive programs and services to local women on the journey to economic self-sufficiency.
Led by event co-chairs Chelci Hudson and Erin Itkoe, the afternoon kicked off with sipping and shopping as attendees were greeted with exciting activities and a marketplace featuring women-owned Arizona businesses. Guests also had the chance to participate in raffles, including a designer handbag raffle featuring bags donated by Robin Steiner with FENDI, PRADA and Saks Fifth Avenue, and a trip for two raffle to CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa, alongside relaxing vacation essentials provided by Kierland Commons and Scottsdale Fashion Square.
The luncheon portion of the program saw emcees, Dominique Newland and Syleste Rodriguez from FOX 10, talk about the impactful work Fresh Start is doing for women across the Valley. Local, all-women mariachi group, Mariachi Pasión, entertained guests with a performance, followed by an energetic fundraising face-off between Sip & Soirée Ambassadors, sponsored by Lerner & Rowe Gives Back, that saw Tony Alfonso come first place with the most money raised for Fresh Start. The afternoon also celebrated the incredible contributions of members in the community with two inaugural award recognitions. Barb Lowe was named Fresh Start’s Volunteer of the Year and McCarthy, represented by Charlie Crews and Bec Striffler, accepted the Community Partner of the Year Award.
The program culminated with an inspiring speech from Fresh Start President & CEO Kim McWaters as well as a moving video about a Fresh Start woman. The event concluded with a beautiful show of generosity as auctioneer Anna Aja rallied the community to donate in support of Fresh Start’s life-changing programs and services.
Fresh Start’s mission is to provide access and resources that help women achieve self-sufficiency and use their strength to thrive. For over three decades, Fresh Start has supported more than 60,000 Arizona women. Through our award-winning Impact Program, Fresh Start offers comprehensive resources, education and training opportunities as well as career services to help women reach their personal and professional goals. For more information, visit freshstartwomen.org or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or LinkedIn.